Koreans, Americans join together in friendship, honor Veterans at annual event
by Cameron Porter
CAMP HENRY, Rep. of Korea -- Remembering our shared past, honoring our Veterans of the Korean War, and joining together as a sign of friendship and cooperation -- that's what the 16th Chilgok Korean-American Friendship Day event was all about, held Dec. 6 at the Chilgok County Chamber of Commerce and Industry Hall in Waegwan, Korea.
More than 200 people attended the event, to include U.S. Army Garrison Daegu Commander Robert Mann, members of the USAG-Daegu staff and more than 30 Soldiers from the 6th Ordnance Battalion at Camp Carroll, Korea.
Following the National Anthems of the United States and the Rep. of Korea, a moment of silence for those who died during the Korean War, and guest remarks -- a couple dozen Korean War Veterans were presented with special ceremonial scarves by U.S. and Korean Army Soldiers as a sign of respect and appreciation.
Following this, a formation of U.S. Soldiers sang the 8th Army Song, and a formation of Korean Soldiers sang a Korean Military Song entitled "Rest in Peace."
"As you well know, the Korean-American Friendship Association meets annually to commemorate all the Korean and American Soldiers who sacrificed so much for the peace of our country," said Sun-ki Beak, the Chilgok governor. "I'm hoping events like this not only honor them but continue to make a stronger relationship between the Koreans and the Americans."
"In my 25 years of service with the U.S. Army I have never seen an alliance more rock solid that what I see here today between our two countries," said Mann. "Together we stand united in one mission -- to preserve peace and achieve an even brighter future for our children and generations to come."
The event was followed by a buffet-style lunch and lots of group photos, selfies and smiles, showing Koreans and Americans together and capturing the cooperation and friendship well.
Hangul: Hidden driver of Korea's economic success
USO Casey and 1-38th FA "Steel Battalion" partner to provide 24-hour operations for Veteran's Day Weekend
Caregivers sometimes unaware of support available
On war and football: Sun Tzu and Bill Belichick